Mmegi photojournalist attacked inside court
Larona Makhaiza | Monday October 27, 2025 11:44
According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred moments after the Magistrate had left the courtroom, when the accused, whose matter had just been heard, charged at Sejakgomo in a fit of rage.
The assailant is said to have physically assaulted the journalist, damaged his camera and issued death threats during the altercation.
Prisons officers, police officers and other court attendees quickly intervened to restrain the attacker and protected the journalist from further harm.
However, Sejakgomo’s professional camera was badly damaged in the scuffle.
Speaking after the ordeal, he expressed shock at the attack, stating that he had been performing his lawful duties as a lensman covering court proceedings when the accused suddenly turned violent.
“This was a terrifying experience. I was just doing my job when the accused came for me, shouting and threatening my life,” Sejakgomo recounted.
He further said it is quite disturbing that in this day and age photographers still have to endure abuse from criminals.
“It is unfortunate that journalists continue to face violence while simply trying to inform the public,” he said.
Mmegi management has since condemned the assault, describing it as a brazen attack on media freedom and called for stronger security measures within court premises to ensure journalists’ safety.
The matter has since been reported to the police for investigation. Law enforcement authorities confirmed that they are probing the incident and assessing the extent of the property damage and threats made against the journalist.
The attack has reignited concerns over the safety of media practitioners in Botswana, with calls growing louder for authorities to hold perpetrators accountable and to guarantee journalists’ protection, particularly in sensitive spaces such as courts.